The Rachman Review Taiwan’s Trump problem
Aug 28, 2025
In this engaging discussion, James Crabtree, an experienced analyst and former director at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, unpacks the shifting U.S. stance on Taiwan amid rising Chinese aggression. He reveals why the Trump administration appears more focused on negotiating with China than supporting Taiwan. Key topics include Taiwan's growing defense anxieties, the evolving military dynamics in the region, and the potential ramifications for U.S. alliances with South Korea, Japan, and India.
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Taiwan's Trump Problem
- Taiwan fears Trump may prioritise a deal with China over defending the island.
- Taipei perceives it lacks influence inside Trump's inner circle and worries about US commitment.
Willingness To Fight And Defence Spending
- US critics ask whether Taiwan shows enough willingness to fight and spend on defence.
- Taiwan has increased defence spending and shifted toward asymmetric weapons to answer Washington's concerns.
Deep Divisions Inside US Policy
- Trump contains both China-hawk and isolationist voices, creating internal debate on Taiwan policy.
- Some administration figures favour less foreign entanglement while hawks push for denial-style deterrence.
